How to treat a cat's fur for lice? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical lice treatment to the cat’s coat, then thoroughly comb the fur with a fine‑toothed lice comb to remove dead insects and eggs. Repeat the treatment and cleaning according to the product’s schedule to prevent reinfestation.
How to treat a cat's fur for lice? - in detail
Treating a cat’s coat for lice requires a systematic approach: identification, medication, grooming, environmental control, and monitoring.
First, confirm the presence of lice by examining the fur and skin. Look for tiny, wing‑less insects moving slowly, as well as eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts. Heavy scratching, hair loss, or crusty patches often accompany an infestation.
Second, select an appropriate antiparasitic product. Options include:
- Topical spot‑on treatments containing fipronil, selamectin, or imidacloprid. Apply directly to the skin at the base of the neck, following the manufacturer’s dosage chart based on weight.
- Oral medications such as nitenpyram or spinosad, prescribed by a veterinarian. These provide rapid kill of adult lice and reduce the risk of re‑infestation.
- Shampoo formulated for flea and lice control, containing pyrethrins or permethrin. Use only under veterinary guidance, as some cats are sensitive to these ingredients.
Third, conduct thorough grooming after medication. Use a fine‑toothed comb to remove dead insects and eggs. Comb the entire body, including the tail and underbelly, for several minutes per session. Repeat the combing process daily for at least one week.
Fourth, treat the environment. Wash all bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately. Apply a residual insecticide spray to the home’s floor and baseboard areas, adhering to safety instructions.
Finally, schedule a follow‑up examination with a veterinarian within two weeks. Verify that no live lice remain and that the cat’s skin has returned to normal condition. If symptoms persist, consider a secondary treatment or investigate alternative causes such as secondary infection.
Consistent application of these steps eliminates the parasite, restores coat health, and prevents recurrence.